Event Schedule

Friday, April 12, 2019

Festival Hours: 11 am – 10 pm

9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Industry ConferenceSeminar Stage

10:00 am – 2:00 pm

School Field Trip
School Field Trip: Halal Immersion Day – Free General Admission to All Students and FacultyStudent Focused ProgrammingPlay AreaCulinary DemonstrationLunchJummah
To include your school or students in this program, contact us by emailing info@IHeartHalal.com

11:00 am – 10:00 pm

Grand BazaarI Heart Halal Hall

11:00 am – 10:00 pm

Food FestivalI Heart Halal Hall

11:00 am – 10:00 pm

Kid ZoneI Heart Halal Hall

1:00 pm – 1:30 pm

Jummah PrayerSeminar Stage

4:00 – 4:30 pm

CULINARY DEMONSTRATION: Hira Umer,CEO, Scrumptious by HiraCulinary Stage
Cake Designer and Artist Hira will demonstrate how to make the perfect chocolate chip cookies! Join her as she prepares these delicious treats. Get the recipe!

5:00 – 5:30 pm

5:00 – 7:00 pm

a night of Young Art

Show Floor & Entry Lounge

Gallery – Film – Paint – Poetry – Rap – Photo Op

An interactive evening social featuring 15 talented creatives.

5:30 – 6:00 pm

CULINARY DEMONSTRATION: Will ColemanCulinary Stage
Will Coleman is a television personality and Columbia College student that is inspired by connecting with people and adding a spark of diversity and happiness. Learn more about Will’s journey from Detroit to the Windy City as he prepares spinach & jalapeno cheese dip which is perfect for entertaining friends and family!

6:00 – 7:00 pm

Muslims in the Media: Influence of Minorities in Storytelling and JournalismSeminar Stage
Join us as we discuss the importance of storytelling and the impact of Muslim Americans on multimedia platforms such as TV, radio, editorial and digital journalism. Four successful journalists of different backgrounds and based in fast-paced metropolitan cities will discuss what it takes to make your break in the industry. Each will share his/her success story and delve into issues of misrepresentation and lack of visibility in the media. Learn how to use your identity to craft and strengthen your unique voice and speak your truth. Learn how to build your storytelling and networking skills to thrive in this career. Learn how to be an active consumer of the news and stand up for when the story doesn’t add up.

6:30 – 7:00 pm

CULINARY DEMONSTRATION: Zubair Mohajir, Chef, Wazwan Supper ClubCulinary Stage
Chef Zubair’s Wazwan Supper Club seamlessly merges his sustainable and social focus with multi-course fine dining. Join him as he discusses the meaning of Wazwan and prepares his delicious version Tandoori Fried Chicken for the crowd. Get the recipe!

*VIP or All Access Pass is Required to Attend the Evening Concert Event

Saturday, April 13, 2019

Festival Hours: 11 am – 10 pm

11:00 am – 10:00 pm

Grand BazaarI Heart Halal Hall

11:00 am – 10:00 pm

Food FestivalI Heart Halal Hall

11:00 am – 10:00 pm

Kid ZoneI Heart Halal Hall

12:00 – 12:30 pm

CULINARY DEMONSTRATION: Hira Umer,CEO, Scrumptious by HiraCulinary Stage
Cake Designer and Artist Hira will demonstrate how to make the perfect buttercream in addition to sharing her best tips for easily decorating a two-tiered cake with fresh floral decor. Join her as she prepares a unique and artistic edible work of art. Get the recipe!

12:00 – 1:00 pm

We want a day when no elected official, no leader, no business, no one – can make an Islamophobic comment, threaten our masjids, or bully our children. We want a day when each of can see and vote for Muslim candidates on the ballot…or even become a candidate and elected official! This day is possible…but only if we own our story, and gain CIVIC POWER. Join us to discuss and plan our individual ACTION and IMPACT towards CIVIC POWER.

Moderator: Dr. Dilara Sayeed is co-founder of IL Muslim Civic Coalition. She is a former 8th grade teacher who shows that activism takes many forms and professions. She was the first hijabi Muslim to run for IL State Legislature.

Panelist:

Sergeant Syed Quadri is the highest ranking Muslim officer in the Chicago Police Department. He believes a relationship with our law enforcement starts before there is an emergency.

Aaron Siebert-Llera fights for our rights with the ACLU. A Latino Muslim and legal advocate, Aaron knows we must show up – from travel ban to criminal justice reform. Civic Power comes from being empowered, and being great allies for others.

Sharaf Mowjood is a Producer for the CBS Evening News. He knows we must tell our stories – highlight and share our community with the world through media and news production- towards national influence and Muslim Civic Power.

Alia Bilal is a Director at Inner-City Muslim Action Network – IMAN. Alia and her team are a model for making impact in some of our most vulnerable and resilient communities, with Green Re-Entry, Arts, Health, and wrap around initiatives.

1:00 – 1:30 pm

Duhr PrayerPrayer Area

1:15 – 1:45 pm

CULINARY DEMONSTRATION: Khafeh Queens & KifahCulinary Stage
Learn how Fatmah Williams from Knafeh Queens and Kifah Muhammad of GetFitWithKifah got their start and learn how Kifah makes a healthy Ramadan smoothie which will replenish lost vitamins and minerals. Fatmah will then demonstrate her famous sahlab with toasted knefeh dough. Sample the original while Kifah shows how to tweak it to make it healthier but still delicious. Get the recipe!

1:30 -2:30 pm

Modest & Fashionable – The Effect of Social Media in the Evolution of Modest FashionSeminar Stage
Women have been dressing modestly for centuries, but today- modest fashion is rising in mainstream popularity. Focusing on the historic shift from “Islamic fashion” to the rise of modest streetwear we will discuss how influencers and retailers have helped to spark this change and provide a positive and fresh narrative for Muslim women globally.

Moderator: Dr. Deanna Khalil, Abaya Addict

Panelists:

Carmen Williams Muhammad, Al-Nisa Designs

2:00 – 3:00 pm

Food and Spirituality: How Halal Raises the Bar for Better for you FoodsMain Stage
Join Sheikh Hamza Yusuf, American Islamic Scholar and co-founder of Zaytuna College and Mr. Adnan Durrani, Chief Halal Officer of Saffron Road Foods for a discussion around halal food and ethical consumerism. Learn how halal foods have raised the bar for better for you food by connecting our universal spiritual values with the foods we raise and consume.

2:00 – 3:00 pm

Indonesian PerformancesFashion Stage

2:15 -2:45 pm

CULINARY DEMONSTRATION: Zakiya Master, Blend of SpiceCulinary Stage
Learn how Blend of Spice started and taste for yourself Zakiya’s famous – BuzzFeed featured – Samosa Pot Pie. We’ll wrap up with a discussion of chai and why no South Asian meal is complete without it! Get the recipe!

2:30 – 3:30 pm

Potluck Nation: Food, Hospitality, and Service Across Religious CommunitiesSeminar Stage

As a religiously diverse democracy, the US is strongest when every person and community can bring their contributions to the whole. Through Chicago’s own Interfaith Youth Core, young adults across the country are contributing profoundly to the civic fabric of the US, inspired by their religious, spiritual and secular traditions. Join in this discussion to learn how four people from distinct traditions (Islam, Sikhism, Judaism, Christianity) draw on shared values to serve the local community, feed the hungry, improve government-resident relations, and foster spaces of hospitality to engage across deep difference. The table is set and we need you to not only bring your distinct contributions but also tell a new national story to invite others in. Come hear that story here!

3:00 – 4:15 pm

Film Screening: The Honest StruggleMain Stage

After over 25 years of incarceration, a Muslim convert re-enters society in the Southside of Chicago to face the same streets that poisoned his life. The film is a raw portrait of a former gang chief trying to survive an honest life and redefine himself in a world in which he feels no belonging.

3:00 – 4:00 pm

The Halal Quiz ShowCulinary Stage
This is your chance to win prizes, gift cards and vendor merchandise. Join Cargill and Greenfence as they quiz you on all things Halal! To add to the fun, this is your chance to see how your answers line up with the answers Sheikh Hamza Yousuf provided to your hosts! Have fun, win gifts and learn how Greenfence helps improve your confidence in Halal.

3:00 – 4:00 pm

Fashion ShowFashion Stage
This high-end modest fashion show promises to be an inspirational experience! The following fashion-forward designers featured in the show are leading the conversation about modest designs.

3:30 – 4:30 pm

How to Maximize the Health Benefits of Fasting During Ramadan?Seminar Stage
With the blessed month of Ramadan quickly approaching, stop by and listen to some advice from professionals in the fields of nutrition, exercise science, and culinary arts. We will look into the health benefits of fasting, the nutritional requirements of the fasting body, and how we can prepare healthy foods that taste great and leave you feeling full and satisfied. With the proper nutrients in your body, the next step is utilizing that fuel to burn off a few extra calories and help control your blood sugar with some exercise tips from a veteran personal trainer. Ready your mind, body, and soul for this unique discussion panel, and embark on a journey with us to the betterment of your health and wellness.Moderator:Ali Othman, IFANCAPanelists: Zubair Mohajir, Chef, Wazwan Supper Club; Kifah Muhammad, Personal Trainer & Health Coach, Get Fit with Kifah; Shanna Maragh, Nutritionist, Do & Co Catering

5:00 – 5:30 pm

Asr PrayerPrayer Area

5:30 – 7:30 pm

Grand Medina Resorts Investment PresentationRoom 318-320, Upstairs

Grand Medina Resorts cordially invites you to a special presentation and Q&A with Zafir Rashid, Founder of Everest Group and CEO of Grand Medina Resorts. This exclusive event is intended for accredited investors only. Minimum investment required is $100,000. Seating is limited. RSVP@grandmedinaresorts.com

5:30 – 6:30 pm

Muslim Writers CollectiveMain Stage
To Zabihah, or not to Zabihah…Is that the right question? For this Muslim Writers Collective collaboration with I Heart Halal, our performers will explore what Halal might (or might not) mean to them. From celebrating family roots to dating and marriage, to fielding hate speech from the “Haraam Police”, there is no topic off-limits in this hour-long set. MWC believes every person has a story worth sharing and aims to help Muslim Americans reclaim power over their own narrative with monthly open mics and workshops catered specifically to the Chicago Muslim community.

5:30 – 7:00 pm

Sameer’s Eats Presents – “Top Halal Chef”Culinary Stage
Join Sameer Sarmast of Sameer’s Eats to pick the next “Top Halal Chef.” This exciting cooking competition will require audience participation! Be there and cast your vote for who you think will be the Top Halal Chef.

5:30 – 6:30 pm

Bedtime Stories for Children of All AgesSeminar Stage
Families gather around as three incredible authors take your children on an imagination journey with this special storytime.
Tayyaba Syed (and her famous puppets) will perform her debut children’ book “The Blessed Bananas”. Chicago-native Jameeleh Shelo will introduce the group to Laith the Lion as she reads from her book “Laith the Lion Goes to Palestine”. Dana Salim will fly the littlest I Heart Halal attendees into dreamland with stories and games from her children’s series “Yousuf’s Everyday Adventures”.

6:00 – 7:00 pm

Fashion ShowFashion Stage
This high-end modest fashion show promises to be an inspirational experience! The following fashion-forward designers featured in the show are leading the conversation about modest designs.

6:30 – 7:30 pm

Halal Investing – 34 Year Record – What Does It Show Us?Seminar Stage
Investing in a halal way can bring benefits on many levels, from personal to societal. This session will explore the practical implications of investing from an Islamic perspective. We’ll talk about:

What halal/Shariah-compliant investing is and who sets the guidelines.

How halal investments perform compared to conventional investments.

How to identify and avoid profiting from riba.

This session is for people of all levels of investing knowledge who want to learn how to apply their Islamic values to investing.

Speaker: Amjad M. Quadri, Regional Manager, Islamic Investment Group

7:00 – 7:30 pm

Maghrib PrayerPrayer Area

7:00 – 10:00 pm

8:00 – 8:30 pm

CULINARY DEMONSTRATION: Chef Demetrios Haralambatos, Kontos FoodsCulinary Stage
Join seasoned Chef Demetrios to learn his tips and tricks for “Working with Fillo Dough 101.” He will discuss differences in the different textures, thickness’ and different shapes of Fillo Dough while preparing delicious recipes for Spinach & Nut Appetizer, and Mushroom Entree, as well as an Almond and Walnut Dessert. Join this demo to see and taste some of his mouth-watering creations. Get the recipe!

8:00 – 10:30 pm

*America’s Least WantedMain Stage
A comedy showcase starring some of America’s top stand-up comics (and yea, they’re Muslim!). “America’s Least Wanted” employs the power of humor to expose our collective fears and hypocrisies and to help us laugh at ourselves.

11:00 am – 6:00 pm

11:00 am – 6:00 pm

12:00 pm – 2:00 pm

12:00 – 12:30 pm

Days of Eid™: The Perfect Ramadan Iftar Table Setting Culinary Stage
Reem Sayes of Days of Eid™ will be showing us how to create the perfect Ramadan iftar table setting using Days of Eid™ products effortlessly and flawlessly. Using her new line of Paper plates, paper bowls, and table covers inspired by Islamic Moroccan Art. Reem will show you just how easy it is to set up the chicest Iftar table; as well as make sure your guests leave with an unforgettable experience!

12:00 – 1:00 pm

No Way To Treat a Child: Stopping the Military Detention and Abuse of Palestinian ChildrenSeminar Stage

Since 2000, Israel has arrested and prosecuted at least 8,000 Palestinian children. The No Way to Treat a Child Campaign, launched by the American Friends Service Committee and Defense of Children International Palestine, seeks to end Israel’s widespread and systematic ill-treatment and torture of Palestinian children in the Israeli military detention system Lesley Williams, from Jewish Voice for Peace Chicago will screen a short trailer from Imprisoning a Generation a documentary following the stories of four young Palestinians who have experienced such detention and will discuss the campaign, and important legislation that would prevent U.S. tax dollars from contributing to these human rights violations.

1:30 -2:00 pm

CULINARY DEMONSTRATION: Amanda Saab, Butter Bear BakeryCulinary Stage
Join Masterchef contestant and owner of Butter Bear Bakery, Amanda Saab as she shares her story and demonstrates how to create the perfect mezze board for any occasion. Get the recipe!

1:30 – 2:30 pm

Fashion ShowFashion Stage
This high-end modest fashion show promises to be an inspirational experience! The following fashion-forward designers featured in the show are leading the conversation about modest designs.

Travel as Service: our influencers will share how they have helped others as part of their traveling experience.

Travel as a spiritual experience – travel can be therapy as well as a spiritual experience

Travel as Knowledge – some of the best lessons learned and sources of inspiration come when you travel.

Best credit cards offering miles and points. How to earn free upgrades.

Umrah and Hajj on a budget.

Plus, we will have amazing giveaways during the session: Muslim travel apparel from Mubdian, Muslim travel prayer beads from BasmalaBeads, contemporary travel prayer rugs from Qenza and a hajj/umrah personal grooming kit from SilkRoadWellness.

2:00 – 3:30 pm

The Mosquers Film FestivalMain Stage
Winter is coming! The Mosquers Film Festival from Canada will be joining us at the 2019 IHH Festival! The Mosquers is a film festival in Edmonton, Canada that aims to educate, entertain and build bridges through showcasing talent and the diverse Muslim experience. Year after year, the festival pursues new ways to introduce both Muslims and non-Muslims to the most original and authentic storytelling. It attracts talent from across the world! Join us for a screening of five award-winning short films. Check out the trailers!

They will also be hosting a 24 HOUR FILM CONTEST with over $500 in prizes! You do not want to miss out on this incredible opportunity!

2:15 – 3:45 pm

Sameer’s Eats Presents – “Cake Boss: Dress to Impress”Culinary Stage
Join Sameer Sarmast of Sameer’s Eats to pick the next “Cake Boss.” The teams will be provided blank sheet cakes and will be pressed with time to use their creative juices to dress up the best looking cake! Join in this demonstration and see how the judges pick for their best creativity and cake decorating skills! Get the recipe!

2:30 -3:30 pm

Hello Holy Days with Manal AmanSeminar Stage
Meet the girl crashing the glass ceiling and bringing Ramadan/ Eid to mainstream media and retailers. Martha Stewart. Crate & Barrel. Party City. These are just some of the companies Manal Aman has worked with to bring Ramadan/ Eid to market. How is she making these historic moves? A hashtag can help answer that question. Manal is the creator of #purpleramadan a movement that encourages North Americans to adopt purple and yellow as the colors of Ramadan and Eid al Fitr in their homes. It’s in the media. It’s in the market. It’s in the homes of thousands of people around the world, even in countries as far away as Australia, Russia and Pakistan. Come listen to Manal talk about what #purpleramadan is, how it came about and why it helps make our American Muslim community stronger.

3:30 – 5:00 pm

2019 Breaking Barriers Pitch CompetitionMain Stage
The IQ Loft is proud to present the 2019 Breaking Barriers Pitch Competition at 3:30 pm CST on April 14th during the I Heart Halal Festival! We have some of the most creative and aspiring entrepreneurs who will be contending during this “shark-tank” like competition for a chance to win $5K and $2.5K worth of startup services for their respective ventures. Attend our event and support our competitors, as they inspire all of us to reach for our dreams. In addition, “like and follow” our Facebook page before attending this event in order to qualify for a chance to win a pair of Apple Airpods, a Google Home Mini, or a pair of Bose Headphones!

3:45 – 4:45 pm

Fashion ShowFashion Stage
This high-end modest fashion show promises to be an inspirational experience! The following fashion-forward designers featured in the show are leading the conversation about modest designs.

4:15 – 4:45 pm

CULINARY DEMONSTRATION: Zubair Mohajir of Wazwan Supper ClubCulinary Stage
Chef Zubair’s Wazwan Supper Club seamlessly merges his sustainable and social focus with multi-course fine dining. Join him as he discusses the meaning of Wazwan and prepares his specialty version of Gushtaba for the crowd. Get the recipe!

5:00 – 5:30 pm

6:00 pm – Festival Closes

Sponsors

Get in Touch

Have questions about I Heart Halal? Need a floor plan, event schedule, tips on where to stay when you’re in town? Just ask. We’re adding exhibitors and participants every day, but if we can’t get you an answer today, we’ll make sure you get one as soon as possible.